Middle School report

Year 9 City Camp 

Our Year 9 students who completed Geography this semester, attended our first City Camp in Melbourne, focusing on exploring citizenship. This new addition to our school’s curriculum offers students a hands-on learning experience about civic responsibilities and urban dynamics. They explored the topics of local government, urban planning, sport, food, the arts, education, and community services. Students returned with enhanced knowledge and a greater appreciation for their roles as active citizens, making it a successful inaugural event. (See the separate article in this issue with student reflection pieces about their experience). 

We look forward to the rest of the cohort having this experience in November.   

Year 10 Tomorrow Man and Tomorrow Woman Workshops 

This term, our Year 10 students have had the opportunity to participate in the Tomorrow Man and Tomorrow Woman workshops. These sessions are designed to challenge traditional gender stereotypes and encourage personal development. Students engaged in activities that promote self-awareness, empathy, and effective communication, helping them to build a stronger sense of identity and community. Many of the teachers observing these sessions were impressed with our Year 10s and how they engaged with sessions and showed respect to each other.  

Year 10 Exam Preparation and Skill Development 

Year 10 students have been diligently preparing for their first round of exams. To support their efforts, we arranged study sessions run by Elevate Education, known for their effective study techniques and motivational strategies. In addition, teachers conducted Skill Booster Sessions to further support students in their revision and exam preparation. These sessions have been helpful for our students to build confidence and improve their academic performance. 

Batyr Incursion 

Both Year 9 and Year 10 students participated in a Batyr incursion this week. Batyr is an organisation dedicated to mental health education, aiming to reduce the stigma around mental health issues and encourage young people to seek help when needed. Through this workshop, students learnt about mental wellness, resilience, and the importance of looking out for one another.  

Home Groups 

During Home Groups this term, Year 9s have focused on building peer connections and fostering a sense of belonging within their classes through various interactive activities. These sessions aim to strengthen class unity and create a supportive school environment. 

Year 10 students have been busy developing essential life skills, which has also aligned with themes in the Year 10 Program. Their activities have included goal setting, learning stress management techniques, financial literacy, study skills, and exploring career pathways. These sessions are designed to prepare them for future challenges and opportunities, both in and out of school. 

Hot chocolate mornings 

With many cold mornings this term, we ran multiple hot chocolate sessions for each of the School Houses. Our Leaders and Class Captains developed this idea to encourage students in both year levels to meet other students in their House. It was lovely seeing many students introduce themselves to new people and chat over a hot choccy. We will continue this in Term 3.  

We are proud of the efforts and achievements of our Year 9 and Year 10 students this term and look forward to seeing them continue to grow and succeed after the holidays.